Yemen Stamps
Yemen, situated in the southwestern corner of the Arabian Peninsula in Western Asia, possesses a complex postal history marked by the division between the former Yemen Arab Republic (North Yemen) and the People's Democratic Republic of Yemen (South Yemen). Prior to unification in 1990, the South experienced British influence, while the North maintained a more independent trajectory, resulting in distinct stamp issues reflecting these separate political entities.
- Issued stamps
- 1990–2013
- Region
- Middle East, Arabian Peninsula
- Currency
- YER
- Languages
- Arabic, English
- Issuer type
- Modern postal administration
About Yemen stamps
Stamps from both regions predominantly feature Arabic script, often alongside English or French denominations, particularly during periods of international postal exchange. The unification led to a consolidation of postal services, though earlier issues from both North and South remain significant areas of philatelic study.
Further reading: Wikipedia
How to identify Yemen stamps
- Look for 'Yemen' or 'الجمهورية اليمنية' (Al-Jumhūrīyah al-Yamanīyah) in Arabic script.
- Post-1990 stamps will reflect the unified state, distinct from earlier North or South Yemen issues.
- Examine watermarks and perforations, though many modern issues are straightforward.
Popular series
-
Unification Issues
1990s
Stamps issued immediately following the unification of North and South Yemen, often depicting national symbols and themes of unity.
-
Cultural Heritage
1990s-2000s
Series featuring historical sites, traditional crafts, and cultural aspects of Yemen.
-
Wildlife and Nature
2000s
Stamps illustrating the diverse flora and fauna of the Yemeni landscape.
Value overview
Typical ranges as orientation, not prices for a particular stamp. Condition, variety and demand decide the value of your copy; for current asking prices, check listings or the app.
- Common stamps
- $0.20–$5
- Scarce stamps
- $50–$500+
Common post-unification Yemen stamps are generally inexpensive. Earlier issues from the Yemen Arab Republic and People's Democratic Republic of Yemen, especially certain definitive sets, errors, or specific commemorative issues, can command higher prices. Condition is crucial for valuable items.
Catalogs. Yemen stamps are listed in the major world catalogs: Scott, Michel and Stanley Gibbons. Catalog numbers and groupings differ between them; the Stamp Identifier app shows the numbers it can find for your stamp.
Questions about Yemen stamps
Yemen stamps are postage stamps issued by the unified Republic of Yemen from 1990 onwards. They reflect the nation's culture, history, and natural beauty, and are distinct from the earlier issues of the Yemen Arab Republic (North Yemen) and the People's Democratic Republic of Yemen (South Yemen).
Most common Yemen stamps issued after 1990 are not highly valuable, typically ranging from $0.20 to $5. However, certain earlier issues from the pre-unification entities, specific commemorative sets, errors, or stamps in pristine condition can be more valuable, potentially reaching hundreds of dollars. Value depends heavily on rarity, condition, and demand.
Yemen stamps can be identified by the country name 'Yemen' or its Arabic equivalent 'الجمهورية اليمنية' printed on them. A photo in the Stamp Identifier app gives a first identification; check the catalog number in a specialised catalog before relying on it. Pay attention to the issuing entity (unified Yemen vs. North/South Yemen) to correctly categorize them.
Yemen stamps are extensively listed in major philatelic catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issue dates, designs, denominations, and estimated values for collectors.
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